Cultural Tips for Jordan – including some valuable business travel tips for Jordan
In the modern business culture, Jordanians are accustomed to using the typical western styles of introducing oneself. So, you can always use your normal introduction style and it will be accepted.
Being on time for appointments is one thing that Jordanians admire in westerners. So, it is helpful for you to do so. However, it is typical of Jordanians to be around a half hour late.
During the month of Ramadan, business hours are shortened and work ends about two or three in the afternoon.
Jordanians normally mix personal conversation with business. A little personal conversation will help with the relationship building.
A loud voice may be considered domineering so don’t speak overly loud.
Jordanians can be emotional in their conversation so you can show some emotion, just don’t raise your voice when you do.
It is quite normal to talk about money, wages, how and how much you pay for things as well as how old you are. It is considered impolite to discuss your relationship with your spouse.
Compliment giving is like entertainment, a source of pride, and done with good sportsmanship. Giving compliments is an important part of relationship building.
Avoid derogatory humor, even with friends. Personal put-downs, criticism and sarcasm are not well accepted.
Avoid making comments on current political events. The perspectives of the east and the west can be very divisive.
Honor is very important in the Jordanian culture. Questioning the honor of someone is a sure way to destroy the relationship.
Lots of titles are used. Social standing is based on the level of education, age, military rank, tribal position and political office.
Negotiating a deal is one of the things Jordanians love most. It is like a sport and they thoroughly enjoy it.
It’s important to have fun at negotiating! One of their favorite mottos is, “Everything is always negotiable”.
Your first meeting should start with full introductions and exchange of business cards.
All meetings will include greetings. This is an important part of relationship building and the foundation of business.
Business moves at different speeds. It can be quite slow or very fast depending on the situation.
Excessive stalling is a polite way of saying that there is no interest in continuing the business discussion.
Jordanians stand closer than most westerners are used to. Stand about half the distance apart as you typically would in western cultures.
Patting or holding the arm or shoulder can be a sign of affection, acceptance, or an offer of assistance.
Holding hands indicates emotional attachment and is appropriate in same sex relationships like a ‘father and son’ or brothers.
5 Key Conversation or Cultural Gesture Tips
Sincere personal compliments
Praising the Jordanian hospitality
Social conversation on topics of mutual interest and vision
History, language, culture, art, music
Sports, especially soccer which they call “football”
5 Key Conversation or Cultural Gesture Taboos
Current events and politics
Religious preferences
Eastern versus western philosophies
Anything that negatively affects personal honor and pride
Criticism of any type
Bon Voyage!
Join us in the future for Do’s and Taboos for MALAYASIA!
To learn more about the Dos and Taboos for different cultures, and the cultural communication styles for Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East – order Gayle Cotton’s bestselling book ‘SAY Anything to Anyone, Anywhere! 5 Keys to Successful Cross-Cultural Communication’ available on Amazon as a Book, eBook, or Audio Book.
Watch the ‘Say Anything-5 Keys’ Video
Create Rapport and Organize Strategies for Success
The CROSS of Cross-Cultural
Emmy Award Winner, Gayle Cotton, is the author of this blog and of the bestselling cross-cultural communication book ‘SAY Anything to Anyone, Anywhere! 5 Keys to Successful Cross-Cultural Communication’, which is available on Amazon as a Book, eBook, or Audio Book. She is President of Circles Of Excellence Inc. and a Professional Keynote Speaker. Contact Gayle if you need professional speakers for events, speakers on cultural diversity, conference speakers for events, or keynote speakers that specialize in cross-cultural training. She is a leader in the field of public speakers, motivational speakers, and international keynote speakers. She is among the best of female keynote speakers and women motivational speakers and is a ‘first choice’ request for international audiences!
Circles Of Excellence provides Corporate Training, Leadership Coaching, and Professional Keynote Speakers for companies of all sizes and in all industries, including over 50 Fortune 500 companies. Contact us about our customized training programs for Communication Skills, Cross-Cultural Communication, Cultural Diversity, Customer Service, Leadership Coaching, Presentation Skills, Sales Negotiations, Stress Management, Teambuilding, and Time Management Training.
Circles Of Excellence Website: www.circlesofexcellence.com
Circles Of Excellence Blog: www.circlesofexcellence.com/newsroom